A method for designing a foreign language program is presented. The guide is intended for use at the department level in British schools and based on new national curriculum requirements for modern language instruction. The resulting program should be a team effort, relate to the general philosophy and curricular policies and objectives of the school and district, define aims and objectives at all stages and abilities, give guidance on appropriate methods and use of resources, enumerate assessment policy, coordinate with national programs and testing, and be regularly monitored and updated. It should serve school and department assessment procedures and act as a tool for developing policy and curricula, ensuring program cohesion, monitoring and improving practice, reporting progress, and interpreting policy and methods. Four broad aspects of program development are addressed in some detail. These include using specific national curriculum guidelines for curriculum and program design; consultation and drafting of the scheme; defining program specifications for policy, administration, and curriculum; and creating a framework for designing the program. A series of checklists is provided to help incorporate all needed components in the program, including department-level considerations, administrative needs, organization, policy, and assessment. A matrix for outlining course and unit details is also included. (MSE)